Diversity Digest is a weekly reflection written by staff from different areas of our school

Queen Sirikit pioneered cultural diplomacy—long before the term “soft power” became popular. Her work did more than empower Thai culture; it was a major step in nation-branding.

She recognised that Thailand lacked a clearly defined national costume for women that could represent the nation with dignity on the world stage. Reflecting on her 1960 state visits abroad, she was quoted as saying:

“I decided that during this royal visit abroad, I would wear both traditional Thai dress and Western attire… This seemed most appropriate for the occasion… However, the national costume like the kimono donned by members of the Japanese deified their nations very well.”

Seeking advice from experts, she oversaw the creation of eight official styles of Chut Thai Phra Rajaniyom (Thai National Dress styles), each suitable for different formalities. Her elegance and vision redefined Thai identity in fashion and earned her recognition in the New York Hall of Fame in 1965.

Today, Her Majesty’s legacy continues. The Chut Thai Phra Rajaniyom is currently under review for inscription on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.